Increasing numbers of operators have moved to contract hire for their fleet needs across the past five years. And, when backed up by short-term rental, FVTH Managing Director Tim Houghton argues that this approach works well for many SME merchant firms in the market.
When did you last review your transport fleet? FVTH has spent the last 30 years supporting merchant fleets among our wide portfolio of customers. Understanding the industry and working to ensure an efficient transport fleet for our customers is just one way in which we add value to our contract hire proposition.
With all commercial vehicles now commanding high prices, and extended lead times, managing the costs of a fleet can be difficult. Moving from outright purchase, contract hire offers a way to offset the capital outlay and leave the merchant with access to funds for stock investment.
Equally, the moving of compliance issues to the contract hire provider can also provide peace of mind that the vehicle is always legal and roadworthy.
Extra capacity
Partnering with a company that offers a rental proposition as well as contract hire can ensure that there are vehicles to supplement peak requirements and is an extra value proposition for customers.
Furthermore, offering a total package that includes maintenance support can remove many of the headaches around running a fleet. The addition of fleet support services through systems such as R2C and a compliance team can make sure that vehicles are kept on the road. Fast response to breakdowns and 24/7 contacts additionally all make for less problems and more solutions.
Future fuels
Alternative fuels are now starting to make inroads into the industry and although the combination of large vehicles and real power is still one that is being developed, the future is going to be different. Understanding the offers, what is already on the market and what is coming, cannot be ignored.
Partnering with a transport company that can help find the answers to all these questions makes complete business sense. Choose a partner who has contacts with many other suppliers to get the full picture. Let them travel this journey with you.
Long term partnerships have been key to FVTH’s approach and one of our long-term relationships is with Raven Roofing Supplies, with the two family-run firms having worked together for over 25 years. Second generation directors are now in partnership, taking on the mantle from older generations, and making the most of these established and experienced working connections.
Recently, FVTH handed over the first four DAF CF320 26t vehicles. Built to a FVTH specification, the DAFs have rearmount HIAB remote control cranes, Bevan dropside bodies, and are fully DVS compliant through Spillards 4-way recordable cameras and human detection system.
The vehicles will be supporting three of the Raven Roofing Supplies locations in Hawkhurst, Thatcham and Basingstoke. Continual investment in its fleet means that it can ensure it delivers to its customers and remain one of the leading independent roofing merchants in the south of England.
With five branches across the south from Swindon to Hawkhurst, Raven Roofing Supplies was founded in 1972 and has extensive experience and knowledge of the roofing industry with expert teams at each location.
Building a mutually beneficial partnership, with each company working to their own strengths, has built in advantages for all.
A commercial truck and van lease and hire company since 1985 with locations in Portsmouth and Colnbrook, in the last five years FVTH has grown its fleet of builders’ merchant vehicles with the addition of several 18t and 26t crane vehicles.
For more information, visit fvth.co.uk
Related news:
Raven Roofing Supplies takes delivery of new 26t vehicles from FVTH
Operational efficiency: FVTH outlines the benefits of contract hire
